What Mindy Kaling Really Eats in a Day

Mindy Kaling has been making us laugh for a decade and a half, partly due to the oh-so-relatable nature of her characters on both "The Office" and "The Mindy Project." And while most of us can certainly find common ground with Mindy Lahiri (that's TV Mindy), who loves junk food and chicken wings, real-life Mindy has much more admirable willpower to resist cravings and eat healthfully - well, most of the time.

In order for Kaling to indulge in her love of snacks, she makes sure to work out, often taking barre and spin classes in her spare time. As she told Vogue in 2014, "I run and work out, it takes a lot of effort to be a normal slash chubby woman."

She also has an interesting technique for holding herself accountable: "I have to pretend, when I run, that I'm avenging the murder of my husband. I have to have these elaborate fantasies to motivate myself," Kaling revealed during an interview with Conan O'Brian.

Erm, OK, maybe we won't be stealing that tip. But her meal plan? Count us in. Here's what our fave funny girl does to eat well and stay energized.

She Starts the Day With Green Juice

Before she can head to work on one of her many TV, film, or writing projects, Kaling starts the day with an energy boost courtesy of a green juice. (Extra points when it matches her outfit!)

She Cooks Breakfast at Home

Kaling heads to the kitchen to make a satisfying breakfast that's equally healthy and tasty; something that keeps her belly happy and full while giving her plenty of nutrients, such as egg whites and tomatoes. Looks good!

She Sneaks a Midday Snack to Keep Her Energy Up

She, Too, Falls Victim to the Sad Desk Lunch

When you're the executive producer, writer, and star of your own namesake television show, it's not a huge surprise that you don't have time to take a lunch break. Is Kaling's PB&J her equivalent of a #SadDeskLunch? Because, if so, we get it. (Psst: Mindy, check out some of our much-needed lunch ideas to update your office meal!)

She Stocks Up on Snacks When She's Filming for Hours

To keep her energy (and happiness) up when shooting over long hours, Kaling says Pinkberry runs are necessary. But, just like her Greek yogurt, she tops her fro-yo with berries and nuts for antioxidants and fiber.

She Makes Comfort Food Healthier

Stars really are just like us - or at least, Mindy Kaling is! After a long day at work, Kaling arrives home and starts binging shows on Netflix while making a comforting meal for dinner. We love her healthy spin on the classic mac 'n' cheese - hers has quinoa and almond cheese! Tapping into our inner child, we're adding it to our menu, stat.

She Bakes

While Kaling may detest the science and patience of baking, she's certainly on board with the yummy end result. We love this idea of using carrots and pecans for a healthier add to muffins. Point us toward the nearest oven!

She's Smart About Eating Out

When Kaling eats out, she does it right: The actress chooses an entrée that's healthy without sacrificing taste (as we all aspire to). Kudos for sticking to her guns!